Chapter 8
Father Odin's Explanation
The morning came too early for some, but not for All Father. Everyone in his entourage gathered together hurriedly. All Father did not allow Thor his breakfast, in fact he requested that no one partake in food or drink until their quest was over. Thor approached his father cautiously as he inquired, "Father, is everything all right? I was given to understand that this was to be no more than an inspection over the ten tribes that Lady Ingveldur commands." Finally, at last, Odin would have to tell his son of the real reason they were heading towards these treacherous lands defended by the barbarian people. "Thor, many years ago I took a very young girl and fought her in combat for the sake of her honor and that of her people. Needless to say she fought with skill and bravery. She now is the Queen Iron Maiden."Thor did not allow him to finish his next sentence. It would not be his father who would fight the next challenger to throne of Iron Maiden, it would be him. Such was the luck of being born, his heir, Son of Odin. And as the Lady Frigga predicted he became irate with his father for not telling him of this quest that might cost the Queen's daughter her life, and the dignity of her people he was well acquainted with the ritual of her taking her life if she loses in combat. "How in the Gods name am I supposed to react to this, Father?" He roared at Odin. "For I can not have this on my conscience to murder an innocent girl!" Odin, countered with, "Her name is Hvonn, and she has trained for this all her life, Thor! You will do as you are bid, you are my son and this is your responsibility if you intend to take my throne!"He did not wait for Thor's reply he headed towards to the stables to mount his horse for the long journey. Loki stood by and listened to it all, he came to Thor's side, and said to him. "Father is right, for as horrendous as this may seem brother, it must be done, if the line of Iron Maiden is to continue. With that last bit of logic he finally decided to ready himself for the unknown. Thor requested that the Lady Sif stay behind. He did not want to have her watch as he shed this child's blood.